According to a Lakota legend, the red-headed woodpecker taught a poor young suitor how to make and play the first flute. The suitor was then able to win the respect of his tribe and the hand of the chief's beautiful daughter. That is why their flutes are made to resemble this bird. Pawnee mythology tells a story of the Woodpecker and the Turkey. The Woodpecker and the Turkey once had a debate as to which bird should be called the protector of humankind. The turkey felt she deserved the title since she laid the largest clutch of eggs. However, the woodpecker's cautious ways won the argument since she kept her young safely nestled inside the tall tree trunks. Although the woodpecker laid fewer eggs, the survival rate of her young was greater than that of the turkey's because she taught them so well that they were certain to live to old age.
The messages that Woodpecker brings are many, so one must choose that message which resonates. One message is to speak one’s truth and march to the beat that one hears in their heart. Another message concerns how you send out your message – is it clear and full of meaning and rhythm, or is it chaotic without meaningful rhythm? Does it show a deep relationship to the Earth and therefore grounded behaviour, or does it speak of one who is ungrounded, flighty, and sends mixed messages about their journey? The drumming out of territory speaks of someone who aggressively takes a stand on issues. However, are you too aggressive and therefore controlling and domineering? Do you need to relax your views and allow room for the views of others?
May you find the beat and rhythm that allows you to be part of the Earth and to find the path that gives you the easiest journey
Love always
mudra